A walk through Polliwog Park, Manhattan Beach

Polliwog Park is a stopover for migratory geese and other birds. Photo by Kevin Cody

The large pond that makes Polliwog park a wildlife refuge for ducks, geese and other migratory birds is reason enough to spend a summer day here. But the City of Manhattan Beach also organizes family friendly events most weekdays and every weekend.

The city’s Parks and Recreations Department is organizing the 19th Annual Family Campout from May 17 to May 18 at the adjacent Begg Field, where families can play games and join in on arts and crafts activities.

Friday night, May 17 at 7:45 is 3rd Annual Movie in the Park takes place that evening at the Polliwog Park Amphitheater — Walt Disney’s lauded animation “Frozen” will be shown. Sunday, May 18 at 8:30 a.m. is the 31st Annual Fishing Derby, where kids can win prizes for catching the most fish, longest fish or most interesting fish.

Three gazebos—popular spots for birthday parties, anniversaries and family reunions–are available for two-hour periods if reserved in advance. The picnic area has a number of tables and six barbecue grills; the play area for young children has slides, climbing and exploration equipment. Polliwog Park also boasts a 9-hole disc golf course and houses one of the city’s oldest beach cottages, which is home to city’s historical museum Admission is free Saturday and Sunday from noon to 3 p.m.

The city’s popular Concerts in Park beginning Sunday, June 22, with the city’s official band The Hyperion Outfall Serenaders Dixieland band.

The line-up this year also includes the Mira Costa Jazz Band, an Elvis tribute, Scot Bruce and Blue Breeze Band, and a Motown R&B-soul band. The concerts continue through Labor Day weekend. Umbrellas and pop-up tents are allowed before and after the concerts.

No dogs are allowed,, there is a dog park adjacent to the park, on the northwest side.